Celebrating Women in Cannabis During Women’s History
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the incredible women who have broken barriers, challenged norms, and made lasting impacts in their fields. In the cannabis industry, women have played a pivotal role in shaping its evolution—from advocating for medical use to building businesses and fostering inclusivity. Their stories are not just about cannabis; they’re about resilience, innovation, and the power of using the plant as a tool for healing, empowerment, and social change.
This month, we’re celebrating the trailblazing women who have paved the way for the cannabis industry as we know it today. From activists and entrepreneurs to doctors and advocates, these women have defied stereotypes, fought for justice, and created opportunities for others to thrive. Let’s dive into their inspiring stories and recognize their contributions to the cannabis movement.
Wanda James: A Pioneer in Cannabis and Advocacy
Wanda James is a true trailblazer. In 2009, she and her husband, Chef Scott Durrah, became the first African Americans to own a cannabis company in the U.S. As the founder and CEO of Simply Pure Dispensary in Denver, Wanda has spent over a decade working to destigmatize cannabis and address racial inequities in the industry.
But her accomplishments don’t stop there. A first-generation graduate of CU Boulder, a Naval ROTC veteran, and a former Fortune 100 executive, Wanda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In 2022, she made history again as the first Black woman elected to Colorado’s First Congressional District board in over 44 years. Wanda’s story is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of using cannabis as a tool for social change.
Mary Jane Rathbun: The Legendary Brownie Mary
Mary Jane Rathbun, affectionately known as Brownie Mary, was a rebel with a heart of gold. In the 1980s, during the height of the AIDS epidemic, she baked thousands of cannabis-infused brownies to ease the pain and nausea of patients at San Francisco General Hospital. Her compassion and activism made her a hero to the LGBTQ+ community and a symbol of the medical marijuana movement.
Brownie Mary’s efforts helped pave the way for California’s Proposition 215 in 1996, which legalized medical cannabis in the state. Her legacy lives on as a reminder of how one person’s kindness and determination can spark monumental change.
Jane West and Jazmin Hupp: Empowering Women in Cannabis
In 2014, Jane West and Jazmin Hupp co-founded Women Grow, the largest network of women in the cannabis and hemp industries. Their mission? To connect, educate, and inspire future leaders in the cannabis space.
Jane, a proud cannabis consumer and entrepreneur, started her journey by hosting cannabis-friendly events to normalize consumption. After facing legal challenges, she shifted her focus to empowering women in the industry. Jazmin, a tech and business genius, brought her expertise to the table, helping Women Grow expand to 60 cities and connect over 75,000 entrepreneurs. Together, they’ve created a thriving community that champions diversity and inclusion in cannabis.
Dr. Junella Chin: A Leader in Cannabis Medicine
Dr. Junella Chin is a pioneer in integrative cannabis medicine. With over 15 years of experience, she has founded seven integrative cannabis clinics and developed industry-leading protocols for cannabinoid formulations. Her work has been featured in Forbes, CNN, and Good Morning America, and she co-authored the book Cannabis and CBD for Health and Wellness.
Dr. Chin’s expertise extends beyond cannabis. Trained in nutritional biochemistry, osteopathic medicine, and medical acupuncture, she is a leading voice in holistic health. Today, she serves on the Advisory Board for the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, continuing to shape the future of cannabis medicine.
Why These Women Matter
These women have not only shaped the cannabis industry but have also used their platforms to advocate for social justice, medical access, and gender equality. Their stories remind us that cannabis is more than just a plant—it’s a tool for healing, empowerment, and community building.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s honor these trailblazers and continue their work to create a more inclusive cannabis industry.
